Links

SAN DIEGO (CNS) - A dry and very hot start to the work week is expected in San Diego County Monday, with forecasters predicting triple-digit temperatures throughout much of the region.

High temperatures Monday will be 85 to 92 degrees at the beaches and near the coast; 92 to 100 in inland coastal areas and higher terrain near the coast; 100 to 108 in the inland valleys; 85 to 103 in mountain areas below 6,000 feet; 70 to 90 above 6,000 feet; 95 to 102 in the upper deserts; and 106 to 112 in the lower deserts, according to the National Weather Service.

"High pressure aloft over California will bring hot days through Tuesday, with weak offshore flow bringing the hottest weather Monday," according to an NWS advisory. "The hot and dry conditions will increase the wildfire potential, especially near the coastal foothills."

During this week's heat wave, the county of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency strongly encouraged residents without access to air conditioning to use one of the more than 100 "Cool Zone" locations in the region. The locations are marked with signs that depict a polar bear. Locations include libraries, senior centers, recreation centers and other public buildings.

The purpose of the county-sponsored Cool Zone program is to offer free access to air conditioning for those whose homes do not have it or those who cannot afford the hefty power bills typically generated by air conditioner use.

Low-income, senior and disabled residents who have trouble traveling can request a free electric fan through the program. Also, some residents qualify for free bus passes to get to the Cool Zone locations. For more information, call (800) 510-2020.